Title: Bonded By Love
Author: Lisa
Chapter: 7
Rating: G
Website: www.geocities.com/mystillusions
Author's Notes:
Hello everyone! Here is chapter 7 of my story, "Bonded By Love." ^_^ I hope you will enjoy this *long* chapter, and thank you so much for the reviews for the last chapter! Um..that's all, so read, enjoy, and review at the end please! And *please* visit my co-owned website and submit your fanfiction/original writings there! (Be sure to sign the guestbook too!) Thank you to toony for editing this chapter for me!
To ChibiXo--No, it wasn't a flaw on my part. ^^;; If you were to read the *entire* paragraph, you would find that the dialogue was spoken by Endymion, so of course he said what he did! But thanks for trying to help anyway!
Disclaimers: Sailor Moon and the others don't belong to me but this story does.
*******************
'Myla is a nice girl,' Serenity contemplated to herself while lying in bed that morning. The Moon Princess had barely slept a wink the night before. She had spent the longest time thinking about Endymion and Myla. They were now engaged, as she had found out yesterday. 'She is beautiful...' she went on with her thoughts, 'and would probably make a good wife for Endymion.' Yet still just the thought of it saddened Serenity to no ends. 'Get yourself together!' Serenity shouted at herself mentally. 'You are getting married tomorrow!'
A light knock at the door broke Serenity from her thoughts. "Come in," she simply stated. Minako peered in the room, a huge smile plastered on her face.
"Morning Sere," she greeted cheerfully, eyes shining. Serenity shook her head; Minako was always happy on mornings, rain or shine.
"Good morning," Serenity replied quietly, sitting up in bed. Minako came in, carrying Serenity's clothes with her. The dress was covered by a plastic covering, to prevent dust particles from settling on its fine fabric.
"It is time to get dressed," Minako chirped, still smiling brightly. She tossed the clothing on Serenity's bed, and sat down with a sigh next to the weary princess.
"Do you know what today is?"
Serenity nodded sadly. "The day before my dreaded wedding with Tranquility..."
Serenity exhaled a shaky breath as she viewed her reflection in the mirror. Her dress, her wedding dress to be exact, fitted her perfectly, down to the last detail. It was a pure, snowy white in color, with pink roses embroidered on the borders of it. A shining diamond crown rested on the golden-haired angel, and a beautiful pearl necklace hung loosely at her neck. Serenity was truly a beauty; one that could easily take any man's breath away. However, even with all her glittering jewels and her fancy dress, the princess was depressed. A tear slowly made its way from her pale cheek as she brushed a tendril of hair from her face.
Weddings were meant to be a wondrous event, meant to bring happiness to couples committing to it. After all, once the wedding vows are exchanged, one would have to spend the rest of his or her life with the other person. Serenity could still vaguely remember her first attendance to a wedding...and how beautiful it was too. And she remembered contemplating quietly to herself, 'Someday, I will meet that one person, and will marry him.'
But that was in the past, before she knew of this marriage her mother had arranged at her birth. This was merely one disadvantage of being royalty; that you could not marry the one you choose.
Oh, how Serenity wanted so badly to be in her prince's arms now, and for him to whisper to her that everything would be all right, that they would always be together. She fidgeted in her dress and watched her skinny figure in the mirror once more. The maid who had been helping her with putting on the wedding dress smiled and whispered, "You make a beautiful bride." Serenity could not but smile back.
"If I could marry Endymion, then this wedding would be perfect," she whispered back.
The maid gave her an affectionate pat on her back and left, bowing at Queen Serenity, who was standing by the doorway. "My daughter, you look wonderful!" the Moon Queen exclaimed and embraced the princess tightly. "Are you ready to marry Prince Tranquility?"
"No, Mother, I am not," Serenity answered back, "and I am afraid I never will be..."
There was a long pause, and the two continued hugging one another.
Queen Serenity finally broke the embrace, a small smile on her lips. "Serenity, I want you to be happy," she began to say, "but I cannot do so if you do not give Tranquility a chance." She gently kissed Serenity on the forehead. "Serenity, accept your destiny, and make the most of it."
"Mother, I love Endymion."
The Queen's eyes went wide, and she laid her hands on Serenity's shoulders, squeezing it gently.
"What did you say?"
"I love Endymion," the princess stated plainly. Her eyes were hard, full of determination. "And nothing can change that," she added firmly.
Queen Serenity was taken back at her daughter's fierce determination. "Daughter, cannot you see what is happening? Endymion is engaged to Princess Myla now."
"I know."
"What?" She was shocked. "And still you insist on fighting?"
"Yes."
Serenity's mother shook her head sadly. "Then I do not know what to say to you Serenity," she answered finally. A weak smile lingered on her lips and she nudged the princess. "Go on," she said, "Tranquility is waiting."
Serenity sucked in a deep breath and exhaled it nervously. 'Good thing this is only a practice wedding,' she contemplated. The princess knew she would not be about to go through with the real one taking place tomorrow afternoon. With a weary sigh, Serenity made her way down the long hall along, trying her best to walk as slowly as possible. After all, she was in no hurry to have this practice marriage with Tranquility...
***
"But Father that is just not fair!" Endymion jumped up from his seat angrily, eyes staring straight into those of the king's. "I do not want to marry Myla!" The prince threw his hands up in exasperation and sighed, running a shaky hand through his thick, black hair. He could not believe that his father would arrange for him to marry so soon. 'Could it be possible that he knows of the relationship between Serenity and I?' Endymion wondered silently. He took his seat by his father's desk once more, and tried to reason with him.
"Father, please do not make me marry her," he implored.
The King looked at his son, confused. "But you have not even met her yet. Why judge so quickly?"
"I have already found my one and only," was Endymion's answer. He had said it without any hesitation that his father was surprised. King Endymion had not imagined his son to reveal his feelings for anyone so openly before. As a matter of fact, the response came so quickly that Endymion himself was surprised. It was like he was thinking with his heart instead of his mind. Though it made the dark-haired prince content, knowing that he had no doubt Serenity was his one true love.
"And who might that be?" the King asked, though already knowing the answer.
"Princess Serenity."
"Who is engaged to your brother," he added. "Or have you forgotten that, my son?"
Endymion shook his head. "No, I have not. Yet I love her still."
The King was amused. So his son was in love with his older brother's betrothed. 'My, what a mess,' the aging ruler thought. "Alright Endymion. Say I agreed to this. What will happen to Tranquility?"
Endymion let a small smile form on his lips as he replied calmly, "He could marry Myla."
Now that was something King Endymion had not considered; to make a switch. That would lead to Endymion marrying Serenity, and Tranquility marrying Myla. Though the king had to ponder if this would really lead to happiness for everyone. Would it really work? But it was an idea, and not a bad one, the King had to admit. He smiled at his youngest son, putting his hand on Endymion's shoulder. "Let me discuss this with your mother. I cannot say it will work, though, since Serenity is supposed to marry Tranquility tomorrow."
That was all Endymion wanted to hear. "Thank you, Father," he said before walking out the door, content that he was making progress in persuading his parents to agree for him to marry Serenity. Endymion shook his head to clear it, all the while thinking of a certain princess. Today was the day of her practice marriage with Tranquility. Oh, he could imagine it now, Serenity, his beautiful Serenity, walking slowly down a red carpeted floor in a shimmering dress, to his older brother. Jealousy began to overtake the prince and Endymion clenched his fists in an attempt to stay calm. 'Endymion, get a hold of yourself,' he scolded himself mentally.
It seemed hopeless, this situation was, to him. How in the world was Endymion going to believe his mother would agree for them to make a switch when Tranquility was getting married to Serenity tomorrow?! The chance of that happening seemed so absurd that Endymion himself began to lose hope of his plan. Still, he remembered seeing the determination in Serenity's eyes when she said that they would be together no matter what, and that gave him new strength. He took in a deep breath of air and walked down the hallway, wanting to witness the practice wedding.
***
Serenity walked slowly down the crimson carpeted floor, eyes downcast, looking at her high-heeled shoes. All around her were empty chairs, chairs that would be occupied this time tomorrow, she reminded herself. 'Tomorrow when I marry Tranquility...' she thought bitterly. 'What can I do now? There is no hope.' So she continued her walk down the floor, eyes not daring to look up.
The ballroom, where the wedding was going to take place, was beautifully decorated. A huge crystal chandelier glittered from overhead, and the fresh scent of roses filled the entire room. The sun poured in from the glass windows, illuminating the place with its bright rays. Serenity cleared her throat, finally reaching to where Tranquility stood. She saw her mother and friends standing beside the King and Queen, bittersweet smiles plastered all their faces. The young princess tried her best to smile, though it was useless. Instead, she felt tears forming in her eyes as she stood beside her dreaded fiancee.
The priest smiled at the couple and fixed his robes before beginning. "Since this is a practice wedding, should I skip to the last lines?" he inquired, scratching his head.
Serenity cringed. That was the part she hated most; the part where she had to say 'yes' or 'I do.' But Tranquility simply nodded and said, "Just get this over with please."
Serenity felt her anger growing and her face felt hot. 'How dare he say that!' She mentally shouted. 'Like I really want to marry him...'
"Very well. Do you Prince Tranquility take Princess Serenity to be your wife? To love and be with for the rest of your life?"
For a second, Tranquility did not answer. Yet finally, he managed to say, "Yes."
"And do you Princess Serenity take Prince Tranquility to be your husband? To love and be with for the rest of your life?" Serenity paled, and shot a desperate look toward her mother and friends. She did not know what to say.
"I...I–" The words just would not come out... "I...do.." she said in a small voice. She quickly turned away, eyes directing their gaze.
"Good. After the exchanging of rings, I will pronounce you husband and wife. After the kiss, you two will be married." The man smiled. "I will come back tomorrow to officially marry the prince and princess," he informed King Endymion, Queen Gaia, and Queen Serenity.
Serenity wanted to hear no more. She quickly mumbled about having a headache and before anyone could have a chance to respond, she walked out of the room, holding back tears which were threatening to spill. The senshi exchanged worried glances. Ami, the usually quiet one of the four, spoke out to Queen Serenity.
"My Queen, the princess seems so unhappy with all of this," she gently pointed out so that the Moon Queen would not be offended.
Queen Serenity cast a look at her daughter's form and sighed, shaking her head in a melancholy fashion. "I can see that. But there is nothing I can do.." She patted blue-haired senshi on the shoulder and smiled weakly.
The princess quickly rubbed at her eyes, wiping away any tears which had formed. 'Why is my life like this?' she asked silently. 'Why?' Serenity brushed a strand of blonde hair from her eyes and exhaled a shaky breath of air.
"Serenity..."
Serenity turned around immediately when she heard her name being uttered. She recognized who the voice belonged to almost instantly. "Endymion!" In a millisecond's time the Moon Princess was in Endymion's awaiting arms. There was no need for words at that time, for the couple was enjoying the wondrous feeling of being in each other's arms. Endymion gently kissed Serenity on the top of her head. "Sere," he whispered huskily into her ear, "you are so beautiful."
Serenity blushed a deep shade of red.
"Thank you..."
She lifted her head, staring straight into Endymion's stormy blue eyes. The princess licked her pink lips, and watched as Endymion slowly leaned down toward her small frame. Her heart began to beat quickly in her chest, and Serenity closed her eyes...
Endymion looked longingly at the goddess before his own eyes. He gently planted a small kiss at the corner of her lips, not daring to kiss her fully, for his own sake. Oh, but her rosy lips were so inviting that Endymion had to use all his willpower not to kiss Serenity with all the love he held for her.
Serenity's eyelids fluttered open, and a confused look marred her features. She was anticipating a real kiss, but to her disappointment, Endymion was too much of a gentleman. She pouted rather cutely to show her discontentment, and Endymion chuckled.
"Someday Serenity, we will be together. I believe in that now, thanks to you."
Serenity smiled brightly. "And I believe in it too. Endymion...nothing can ever separate us..."
That night, Serenity tossed and turned in her bed, having trouble falling asleep. Every time the blonde closed her eyes, the thought of marrying Tranquility in a matter of hours crept back in her mind. She finally gave up on sleeping and sat up in her bed, turning on the small lamp beside her bed. "I cannot do it.." she whispered out loud, "I cannot bring myself to marry Tranquility tomorrow." The princess's hand unconsciously went to touch her lips, and she remembered how Endymion's lips gently touched hers. It was not a real kiss, to her disappointment, though it still brought a smile on Serenity's face. "Oh Endymion..." The murmur was barely audible, carried away by the still air. Serenity laid down once more and closed her eyes, her mind on a certain dark-haired prince all the while...
Before long, morning came, much to Serenity's distress. Gray clouds hung lowly in the dark sky; the sun blocked by it. Serenity eyed her wedding dress, which was laying on a nearby chair, nervously. Soon she would be wearing that dress, walking down a red carpeted floor, and committing to something she never agreed to in the first place. No, the Moon Princess did not like that one bit. Tucking a strand of golden-blonde hair behind her ear, Serenity got out of bed slowly. She was in no hurry.
"Princess, can I come in?"
Serenity exhaled a breath of air before walking over to the door. She opened the door slowly, and greeted the maid who was to help her prepare for the wedding. "Hello," Serenity said, forcing a weak smile on her face. She made a gesture for the woman to come in. "I guess we might as well get started."
"Yes Princess."
While Serenity was busy getting the dress on, the maid rushed about the room, getting the makeup ready, and taking out the jewelry Serenity was going to wear for the wedding.
An hour had passed, Serenity realized. Yet the sky was still dark, and the gray clouds were still blanketing the sky. After a few finishing touches, Serenity looked at her reflection in the mirror.
"There," the woman whispered, smiling warmly. "You look beautiful."
Serenity did not answer, and simply sat down on her bed. "You may leave now..."
"Yes." The maid complied and left quickly, leaving Serenity alone.
A light breeze blew outside, gently rustling the leaves of the tress. Serenity watched blankly, her mind on other things. 'I wonder if I can talk with Mother about this...but it is too late now...' A small flicker of hope was still in the princess though as she walked out of her room.
The high heels of her shoes clicked on the white marble floors as Serenity made her way down the long corridor, eyes downcast. With each step she took, the more nervous she got. Serenity sucked in a deep breath of air and blew it back out to calm herself. But who could blame her? After all, she was going to marry her worst enemy, Tranquility.
"Endymion!" The princess's eyes lit up immediately when she saw him from a distance, walking toward her. She practically ran over into Endymion's arms, with the prince stroking her hair lovingly, whispering sweet words into her ears. "I am scared," she whispered tearfully, "Endymion I cannot go through with the wedding."
He gently kissed her forehead, right on the crescent moon, and smiled weakly. "I just spoke with my parents," he informed Serenity, "and they said that there is nothing they can do about our situation." Endymion looked into Serenity's tear-filled eyes. "Serenity...do not cry..." He gently wiped a tear away. "You look stunning in your wedding dress..."
Through her tears, Serenity managed a meek smile.
"And you look very handsome in your armor..."
Queen Serenity shook her head sadly, having witnessed the tender moment that was shared by the couple. She clearly her throat to make herself noticed, and then gently took hold of Serenity's arm. "Come on, the wedding is about to begin." The Moon Queen saw how her daughter's eyes clouded with misery before nodding quietly.
"Yes Mother," she replied simply.
Endymion looked down at his feet to avoid meeting eye contact with the Queen. "Serenity, I will walk you there," he said, though clearly aware the ballroom was only a few rooms down. Hearing no objections from Serenity's mother, he began walking away, Serenity close by him.
Endymion cast a quick glance at the Serenity walking head down beside him. 'Oh, she is just so lovely...my Serenity...' As they neared the ballroom, Endymion broke the thick silence that had formed between them. "Serenity, I will not be attending the wedding," he whispered to the princess. Serenity immediately lifted her head, and stared deep into his blue eyes.
"Why?"
"I cannot stand to see you marry my brother. I am sorry."
"I understand..."
"Serenity?"
"Yes?"
The prince smiled, gently kissing her hand one last time. "I love you," he breathed to her.
Just hearing those three words brought fresh tears to Serenity's eyes. "I love you too," she answered back. As Queen Serenity approached the twosome, Serenity gave one last longing glance at her beloved Endymion before pushing open the doors, and stepped inside, onto the red carpeted floor.
The room was full of people, old and young alike, all dressed in fancy clothing. Upon seeing the bride enter the room, their whispers ceased, and all eyes were upon Serenity and her mother, who was to escort her down to where Tranquility was standing. Serenity began to feel extremely nervous. Her face paled as she slowly walked down the aisle. Only the tight grip of Queen Serenity's arm around hers gave her some comfort. Serenity took in a deep breath of the air and continued her walk.
Endymion felt guilty for not attending Serenity wedding. Yet still he could not bring himself to go and attend it. He walked down the hall to his room, eyes staring blankly ahead. His eyes caught sight of a girl...who looked like she was lost. 'I have not seen her before,' Endymion contemplated.
"Excuse me Miss," he began to say, "are you lost?"
Myla focused her eyes on the speaker. A blush crept to her cheeks when she realized who he was. "You are Prince Endymion..." she said dazedly.
Endymion simply nodded. "And you are..."
"Princess Myla, your fiancee," came the reply.
Endymion was shocked, and his face clearly expressed it. "You are my fiancee?"
Serenity watched as her mother took her place on one of the thrones beside the King and Queen. Her friends, the senshi, were standing beside the Queen, in case something should happen. And at last there was Tranquility, who was right beside her, eyes staring straight ahead at the priest.
"We are all gathered here today to join in marriage Princess Serenity of the Moon Kingdom, and Prince Tranquility of the Earth Kingdom. May these two live together in happiness for the rest of their lives."
The room was silent, save for the occasional cough here or there. Serenity fidgeted in her dress, growing more nervous by the second. Every word the man said cut deeply into Serenity's heart. No, she did not want to marry Tranquility. And no, she would not live in happiness for the rest of her life. She would live in misery instead.
Serenity's head began spinning. She could not go through with this, no matter how hard she tried; it was useless. 'I cannot marry Tranquility,' her mind shouted. With that thought in mind, Serenity turned around and ran from the room...
*******************
Ooh, chapter 7, completed! And with a cliff-hanger too! *evil grin* I'm sorry if this chapter wasn't too good, but it was my longest one ever! I know the wedding scenes were bad, and the chapter was a bit rushed, but I still hope you enjoyed it...and please review! Please! *begs* Or e-mail...e-mail is good too! ^_^ E-mail me at LisaZUMstories@aol.com or Lisafics@sailormoon.com. My goal is to finish this story (yes you heard me, finish!) by the end of this month. Please help this story reach its 100 review goal by reviewing! Until the next chapter, bye! Go visit my co-owned website and submit your stories/poetry there!!!! ^_~
This story written and posted January, 2002.
Author: Lisa
Chapter: 7
Rating: G
Website: www.geocities.com/mystillusions
Author's Notes:
Hello everyone! Here is chapter 7 of my story, "Bonded By Love." ^_^ I hope you will enjoy this *long* chapter, and thank you so much for the reviews for the last chapter! Um..that's all, so read, enjoy, and review at the end please! And *please* visit my co-owned website and submit your fanfiction/original writings there! (Be sure to sign the guestbook too!) Thank you to toony for editing this chapter for me!
To ChibiXo--No, it wasn't a flaw on my part. ^^;; If you were to read the *entire* paragraph, you would find that the dialogue was spoken by Endymion, so of course he said what he did! But thanks for trying to help anyway!
Disclaimers: Sailor Moon and the others don't belong to me but this story does.
*******************
'Myla is a nice girl,' Serenity contemplated to herself while lying in bed that morning. The Moon Princess had barely slept a wink the night before. She had spent the longest time thinking about Endymion and Myla. They were now engaged, as she had found out yesterday. 'She is beautiful...' she went on with her thoughts, 'and would probably make a good wife for Endymion.' Yet still just the thought of it saddened Serenity to no ends. 'Get yourself together!' Serenity shouted at herself mentally. 'You are getting married tomorrow!'
A light knock at the door broke Serenity from her thoughts. "Come in," she simply stated. Minako peered in the room, a huge smile plastered on her face.
"Morning Sere," she greeted cheerfully, eyes shining. Serenity shook her head; Minako was always happy on mornings, rain or shine.
"Good morning," Serenity replied quietly, sitting up in bed. Minako came in, carrying Serenity's clothes with her. The dress was covered by a plastic covering, to prevent dust particles from settling on its fine fabric.
"It is time to get dressed," Minako chirped, still smiling brightly. She tossed the clothing on Serenity's bed, and sat down with a sigh next to the weary princess.
"Do you know what today is?"
Serenity nodded sadly. "The day before my dreaded wedding with Tranquility..."
Serenity exhaled a shaky breath as she viewed her reflection in the mirror. Her dress, her wedding dress to be exact, fitted her perfectly, down to the last detail. It was a pure, snowy white in color, with pink roses embroidered on the borders of it. A shining diamond crown rested on the golden-haired angel, and a beautiful pearl necklace hung loosely at her neck. Serenity was truly a beauty; one that could easily take any man's breath away. However, even with all her glittering jewels and her fancy dress, the princess was depressed. A tear slowly made its way from her pale cheek as she brushed a tendril of hair from her face.
Weddings were meant to be a wondrous event, meant to bring happiness to couples committing to it. After all, once the wedding vows are exchanged, one would have to spend the rest of his or her life with the other person. Serenity could still vaguely remember her first attendance to a wedding...and how beautiful it was too. And she remembered contemplating quietly to herself, 'Someday, I will meet that one person, and will marry him.'
But that was in the past, before she knew of this marriage her mother had arranged at her birth. This was merely one disadvantage of being royalty; that you could not marry the one you choose.
Oh, how Serenity wanted so badly to be in her prince's arms now, and for him to whisper to her that everything would be all right, that they would always be together. She fidgeted in her dress and watched her skinny figure in the mirror once more. The maid who had been helping her with putting on the wedding dress smiled and whispered, "You make a beautiful bride." Serenity could not but smile back.
"If I could marry Endymion, then this wedding would be perfect," she whispered back.
The maid gave her an affectionate pat on her back and left, bowing at Queen Serenity, who was standing by the doorway. "My daughter, you look wonderful!" the Moon Queen exclaimed and embraced the princess tightly. "Are you ready to marry Prince Tranquility?"
"No, Mother, I am not," Serenity answered back, "and I am afraid I never will be..."
There was a long pause, and the two continued hugging one another.
Queen Serenity finally broke the embrace, a small smile on her lips. "Serenity, I want you to be happy," she began to say, "but I cannot do so if you do not give Tranquility a chance." She gently kissed Serenity on the forehead. "Serenity, accept your destiny, and make the most of it."
"Mother, I love Endymion."
The Queen's eyes went wide, and she laid her hands on Serenity's shoulders, squeezing it gently.
"What did you say?"
"I love Endymion," the princess stated plainly. Her eyes were hard, full of determination. "And nothing can change that," she added firmly.
Queen Serenity was taken back at her daughter's fierce determination. "Daughter, cannot you see what is happening? Endymion is engaged to Princess Myla now."
"I know."
"What?" She was shocked. "And still you insist on fighting?"
"Yes."
Serenity's mother shook her head sadly. "Then I do not know what to say to you Serenity," she answered finally. A weak smile lingered on her lips and she nudged the princess. "Go on," she said, "Tranquility is waiting."
Serenity sucked in a deep breath and exhaled it nervously. 'Good thing this is only a practice wedding,' she contemplated. The princess knew she would not be about to go through with the real one taking place tomorrow afternoon. With a weary sigh, Serenity made her way down the long hall along, trying her best to walk as slowly as possible. After all, she was in no hurry to have this practice marriage with Tranquility...
***
"But Father that is just not fair!" Endymion jumped up from his seat angrily, eyes staring straight into those of the king's. "I do not want to marry Myla!" The prince threw his hands up in exasperation and sighed, running a shaky hand through his thick, black hair. He could not believe that his father would arrange for him to marry so soon. 'Could it be possible that he knows of the relationship between Serenity and I?' Endymion wondered silently. He took his seat by his father's desk once more, and tried to reason with him.
"Father, please do not make me marry her," he implored.
The King looked at his son, confused. "But you have not even met her yet. Why judge so quickly?"
"I have already found my one and only," was Endymion's answer. He had said it without any hesitation that his father was surprised. King Endymion had not imagined his son to reveal his feelings for anyone so openly before. As a matter of fact, the response came so quickly that Endymion himself was surprised. It was like he was thinking with his heart instead of his mind. Though it made the dark-haired prince content, knowing that he had no doubt Serenity was his one true love.
"And who might that be?" the King asked, though already knowing the answer.
"Princess Serenity."
"Who is engaged to your brother," he added. "Or have you forgotten that, my son?"
Endymion shook his head. "No, I have not. Yet I love her still."
The King was amused. So his son was in love with his older brother's betrothed. 'My, what a mess,' the aging ruler thought. "Alright Endymion. Say I agreed to this. What will happen to Tranquility?"
Endymion let a small smile form on his lips as he replied calmly, "He could marry Myla."
Now that was something King Endymion had not considered; to make a switch. That would lead to Endymion marrying Serenity, and Tranquility marrying Myla. Though the king had to ponder if this would really lead to happiness for everyone. Would it really work? But it was an idea, and not a bad one, the King had to admit. He smiled at his youngest son, putting his hand on Endymion's shoulder. "Let me discuss this with your mother. I cannot say it will work, though, since Serenity is supposed to marry Tranquility tomorrow."
That was all Endymion wanted to hear. "Thank you, Father," he said before walking out the door, content that he was making progress in persuading his parents to agree for him to marry Serenity. Endymion shook his head to clear it, all the while thinking of a certain princess. Today was the day of her practice marriage with Tranquility. Oh, he could imagine it now, Serenity, his beautiful Serenity, walking slowly down a red carpeted floor in a shimmering dress, to his older brother. Jealousy began to overtake the prince and Endymion clenched his fists in an attempt to stay calm. 'Endymion, get a hold of yourself,' he scolded himself mentally.
It seemed hopeless, this situation was, to him. How in the world was Endymion going to believe his mother would agree for them to make a switch when Tranquility was getting married to Serenity tomorrow?! The chance of that happening seemed so absurd that Endymion himself began to lose hope of his plan. Still, he remembered seeing the determination in Serenity's eyes when she said that they would be together no matter what, and that gave him new strength. He took in a deep breath of air and walked down the hallway, wanting to witness the practice wedding.
***
Serenity walked slowly down the crimson carpeted floor, eyes downcast, looking at her high-heeled shoes. All around her were empty chairs, chairs that would be occupied this time tomorrow, she reminded herself. 'Tomorrow when I marry Tranquility...' she thought bitterly. 'What can I do now? There is no hope.' So she continued her walk down the floor, eyes not daring to look up.
The ballroom, where the wedding was going to take place, was beautifully decorated. A huge crystal chandelier glittered from overhead, and the fresh scent of roses filled the entire room. The sun poured in from the glass windows, illuminating the place with its bright rays. Serenity cleared her throat, finally reaching to where Tranquility stood. She saw her mother and friends standing beside the King and Queen, bittersweet smiles plastered all their faces. The young princess tried her best to smile, though it was useless. Instead, she felt tears forming in her eyes as she stood beside her dreaded fiancee.
The priest smiled at the couple and fixed his robes before beginning. "Since this is a practice wedding, should I skip to the last lines?" he inquired, scratching his head.
Serenity cringed. That was the part she hated most; the part where she had to say 'yes' or 'I do.' But Tranquility simply nodded and said, "Just get this over with please."
Serenity felt her anger growing and her face felt hot. 'How dare he say that!' She mentally shouted. 'Like I really want to marry him...'
"Very well. Do you Prince Tranquility take Princess Serenity to be your wife? To love and be with for the rest of your life?"
For a second, Tranquility did not answer. Yet finally, he managed to say, "Yes."
"And do you Princess Serenity take Prince Tranquility to be your husband? To love and be with for the rest of your life?" Serenity paled, and shot a desperate look toward her mother and friends. She did not know what to say.
"I...I–" The words just would not come out... "I...do.." she said in a small voice. She quickly turned away, eyes directing their gaze.
"Good. After the exchanging of rings, I will pronounce you husband and wife. After the kiss, you two will be married." The man smiled. "I will come back tomorrow to officially marry the prince and princess," he informed King Endymion, Queen Gaia, and Queen Serenity.
Serenity wanted to hear no more. She quickly mumbled about having a headache and before anyone could have a chance to respond, she walked out of the room, holding back tears which were threatening to spill. The senshi exchanged worried glances. Ami, the usually quiet one of the four, spoke out to Queen Serenity.
"My Queen, the princess seems so unhappy with all of this," she gently pointed out so that the Moon Queen would not be offended.
Queen Serenity cast a look at her daughter's form and sighed, shaking her head in a melancholy fashion. "I can see that. But there is nothing I can do.." She patted blue-haired senshi on the shoulder and smiled weakly.
The princess quickly rubbed at her eyes, wiping away any tears which had formed. 'Why is my life like this?' she asked silently. 'Why?' Serenity brushed a strand of blonde hair from her eyes and exhaled a shaky breath of air.
"Serenity..."
Serenity turned around immediately when she heard her name being uttered. She recognized who the voice belonged to almost instantly. "Endymion!" In a millisecond's time the Moon Princess was in Endymion's awaiting arms. There was no need for words at that time, for the couple was enjoying the wondrous feeling of being in each other's arms. Endymion gently kissed Serenity on the top of her head. "Sere," he whispered huskily into her ear, "you are so beautiful."
Serenity blushed a deep shade of red.
"Thank you..."
She lifted her head, staring straight into Endymion's stormy blue eyes. The princess licked her pink lips, and watched as Endymion slowly leaned down toward her small frame. Her heart began to beat quickly in her chest, and Serenity closed her eyes...
Endymion looked longingly at the goddess before his own eyes. He gently planted a small kiss at the corner of her lips, not daring to kiss her fully, for his own sake. Oh, but her rosy lips were so inviting that Endymion had to use all his willpower not to kiss Serenity with all the love he held for her.
Serenity's eyelids fluttered open, and a confused look marred her features. She was anticipating a real kiss, but to her disappointment, Endymion was too much of a gentleman. She pouted rather cutely to show her discontentment, and Endymion chuckled.
"Someday Serenity, we will be together. I believe in that now, thanks to you."
Serenity smiled brightly. "And I believe in it too. Endymion...nothing can ever separate us..."
That night, Serenity tossed and turned in her bed, having trouble falling asleep. Every time the blonde closed her eyes, the thought of marrying Tranquility in a matter of hours crept back in her mind. She finally gave up on sleeping and sat up in her bed, turning on the small lamp beside her bed. "I cannot do it.." she whispered out loud, "I cannot bring myself to marry Tranquility tomorrow." The princess's hand unconsciously went to touch her lips, and she remembered how Endymion's lips gently touched hers. It was not a real kiss, to her disappointment, though it still brought a smile on Serenity's face. "Oh Endymion..." The murmur was barely audible, carried away by the still air. Serenity laid down once more and closed her eyes, her mind on a certain dark-haired prince all the while...
Before long, morning came, much to Serenity's distress. Gray clouds hung lowly in the dark sky; the sun blocked by it. Serenity eyed her wedding dress, which was laying on a nearby chair, nervously. Soon she would be wearing that dress, walking down a red carpeted floor, and committing to something she never agreed to in the first place. No, the Moon Princess did not like that one bit. Tucking a strand of golden-blonde hair behind her ear, Serenity got out of bed slowly. She was in no hurry.
"Princess, can I come in?"
Serenity exhaled a breath of air before walking over to the door. She opened the door slowly, and greeted the maid who was to help her prepare for the wedding. "Hello," Serenity said, forcing a weak smile on her face. She made a gesture for the woman to come in. "I guess we might as well get started."
"Yes Princess."
While Serenity was busy getting the dress on, the maid rushed about the room, getting the makeup ready, and taking out the jewelry Serenity was going to wear for the wedding.
An hour had passed, Serenity realized. Yet the sky was still dark, and the gray clouds were still blanketing the sky. After a few finishing touches, Serenity looked at her reflection in the mirror.
"There," the woman whispered, smiling warmly. "You look beautiful."
Serenity did not answer, and simply sat down on her bed. "You may leave now..."
"Yes." The maid complied and left quickly, leaving Serenity alone.
A light breeze blew outside, gently rustling the leaves of the tress. Serenity watched blankly, her mind on other things. 'I wonder if I can talk with Mother about this...but it is too late now...' A small flicker of hope was still in the princess though as she walked out of her room.
The high heels of her shoes clicked on the white marble floors as Serenity made her way down the long corridor, eyes downcast. With each step she took, the more nervous she got. Serenity sucked in a deep breath of air and blew it back out to calm herself. But who could blame her? After all, she was going to marry her worst enemy, Tranquility.
"Endymion!" The princess's eyes lit up immediately when she saw him from a distance, walking toward her. She practically ran over into Endymion's arms, with the prince stroking her hair lovingly, whispering sweet words into her ears. "I am scared," she whispered tearfully, "Endymion I cannot go through with the wedding."
He gently kissed her forehead, right on the crescent moon, and smiled weakly. "I just spoke with my parents," he informed Serenity, "and they said that there is nothing they can do about our situation." Endymion looked into Serenity's tear-filled eyes. "Serenity...do not cry..." He gently wiped a tear away. "You look stunning in your wedding dress..."
Through her tears, Serenity managed a meek smile.
"And you look very handsome in your armor..."
Queen Serenity shook her head sadly, having witnessed the tender moment that was shared by the couple. She clearly her throat to make herself noticed, and then gently took hold of Serenity's arm. "Come on, the wedding is about to begin." The Moon Queen saw how her daughter's eyes clouded with misery before nodding quietly.
"Yes Mother," she replied simply.
Endymion looked down at his feet to avoid meeting eye contact with the Queen. "Serenity, I will walk you there," he said, though clearly aware the ballroom was only a few rooms down. Hearing no objections from Serenity's mother, he began walking away, Serenity close by him.
Endymion cast a quick glance at the Serenity walking head down beside him. 'Oh, she is just so lovely...my Serenity...' As they neared the ballroom, Endymion broke the thick silence that had formed between them. "Serenity, I will not be attending the wedding," he whispered to the princess. Serenity immediately lifted her head, and stared deep into his blue eyes.
"Why?"
"I cannot stand to see you marry my brother. I am sorry."
"I understand..."
"Serenity?"
"Yes?"
The prince smiled, gently kissing her hand one last time. "I love you," he breathed to her.
Just hearing those three words brought fresh tears to Serenity's eyes. "I love you too," she answered back. As Queen Serenity approached the twosome, Serenity gave one last longing glance at her beloved Endymion before pushing open the doors, and stepped inside, onto the red carpeted floor.
The room was full of people, old and young alike, all dressed in fancy clothing. Upon seeing the bride enter the room, their whispers ceased, and all eyes were upon Serenity and her mother, who was to escort her down to where Tranquility was standing. Serenity began to feel extremely nervous. Her face paled as she slowly walked down the aisle. Only the tight grip of Queen Serenity's arm around hers gave her some comfort. Serenity took in a deep breath of the air and continued her walk.
Endymion felt guilty for not attending Serenity wedding. Yet still he could not bring himself to go and attend it. He walked down the hall to his room, eyes staring blankly ahead. His eyes caught sight of a girl...who looked like she was lost. 'I have not seen her before,' Endymion contemplated.
"Excuse me Miss," he began to say, "are you lost?"
Myla focused her eyes on the speaker. A blush crept to her cheeks when she realized who he was. "You are Prince Endymion..." she said dazedly.
Endymion simply nodded. "And you are..."
"Princess Myla, your fiancee," came the reply.
Endymion was shocked, and his face clearly expressed it. "You are my fiancee?"
Serenity watched as her mother took her place on one of the thrones beside the King and Queen. Her friends, the senshi, were standing beside the Queen, in case something should happen. And at last there was Tranquility, who was right beside her, eyes staring straight ahead at the priest.
"We are all gathered here today to join in marriage Princess Serenity of the Moon Kingdom, and Prince Tranquility of the Earth Kingdom. May these two live together in happiness for the rest of their lives."
The room was silent, save for the occasional cough here or there. Serenity fidgeted in her dress, growing more nervous by the second. Every word the man said cut deeply into Serenity's heart. No, she did not want to marry Tranquility. And no, she would not live in happiness for the rest of her life. She would live in misery instead.
Serenity's head began spinning. She could not go through with this, no matter how hard she tried; it was useless. 'I cannot marry Tranquility,' her mind shouted. With that thought in mind, Serenity turned around and ran from the room...
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Ooh, chapter 7, completed! And with a cliff-hanger too! *evil grin* I'm sorry if this chapter wasn't too good, but it was my longest one ever! I know the wedding scenes were bad, and the chapter was a bit rushed, but I still hope you enjoyed it...and please review! Please! *begs* Or e-mail...e-mail is good too! ^_^ E-mail me at LisaZUMstories@aol.com or Lisafics@sailormoon.com. My goal is to finish this story (yes you heard me, finish!) by the end of this month. Please help this story reach its 100 review goal by reviewing! Until the next chapter, bye! Go visit my co-owned website and submit your stories/poetry there!!!! ^_~
This story written and posted January, 2002.